In June of 2007 the DoD Mental Health Task Report recommended that mental health screening questions from the security clearance questionnaire be removed to reduce stigma. In response, the DoD announced in the spring of 2008 that the mental health question on the Standard Form 86 would be revised.

Here is the language from the September 1995 revision:

In the last 7 years, have you consulted with a mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, counselor, etc.) or have you consulted with another health care provider about a mental health related condition?

If you answered "Yes," provide the dates of treatment and the name and address of the therapist or doctor below, unless the consultation(s) involved only marital, family or grief counseling, not related to violence by you.

Here is the language from the July 2008 update:

Mental health counseling in and of itself is not a reason to revoke or deny a clearance.

In the last 7 years, have you consulted with a health care professional regarding an emotional or mental health condition or were you hospitalized for such a condition? Answer "No" if the counseling was for any of the following reasons and was not court-ordered:

1) strictly marital, family, grief not related to violence by you; or

2) strictly related to adjustments from service in a military combat environment.

If you answered "Yes," indicate who conducted the treatment and/or counseling, provide the following information, and sign the Authorization for Release of Medical Information Pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Comment: Strong warriors hit their problems head on. Taking accountability and responsibility for personal problems is a sign of strength and maturity. It might add some hassle to filling out paperwork but may improve one's job or clearance application.